Aramark unveils Amazon Just Walk Out technology powered store at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Aramark Healthcare+ has launched a new store at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, powered by Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology and located near the main café dining area.

This marks the first Texas hospital to implement Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology and the second fully autonomous micro market within Houston Methodist. The 150 square foot store provides a variety of convenience snacks, beverages, healthy options, and microwaveable frozen meals.

David Hanson, Vice President of Operations at Aramark Healthcare+, says: “The Aramark Healthcare+ team is thrilled to work with Houston Methodist to open Amazon’s first Just Walk Out hospital location in the state.”

“This store underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge innovation and unparalleled experiences to patients, caregivers, and guests 24/7.”

People enter by swiping their credit card at the entry gate. The technology tracks items taken from or returned to the shelves. Upon completion, guests can leave without waiting in line, and the chosen payment method is automatically charged.

The new store brings to life a previously under-utilised space, originally designed for soiled tray return.

Hanson adds: “The new Just Walk Out store is helping us re-imagine how we can use small spaces to drive satisfaction.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Checkout-free stores are a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.